Smith: I'll see you at Ibrox, Ryan

Kevin McRoberts • Published 16 Feb 2011 09:31 1 Comment

RANGERS manager Walter Smith has sent a personal 'Get Well Soon' message to the Lornshill Academy pupil who was critically injured after falling 50ft down a stairwell at the school.

Ryan Spence (12) was left fighting for his life after the horrific accident two weeks ago.

Yet miraculously, despite fears he might not pull through, Ryan is showing signs that he is recovering from his appalling injuries.

And he now has a special treat to look forward to when, as everyone is willing him to, he finally feels well enough to leave hospital.

When the Advertiser heard Ryan was a Rangers supporter, we contacted Ibrox to ask the club to send a 'Get Well' message in the hope it might give him a bit of a boost.

When Walter was told about Ryan's terrible injuries, he took time out from the club's preparations for Thursday's Europa Cup game against Sporting Lisbon to personally write to him and his family.

The Rangers manager told the Advertiser, "We were shocked to hear the news of Ryan's accident and on behalf of everyone at Rangers Football Club I would like to send him my best wishes.

"It must be a distressing time for Ryan, his family and his friends but we hope he makes a full recovery and can join us at Ibrox for a match when he is well enough."

A letter from Walter, including some souvenir items, was posted to the family this week.

And when he is well enough, Rangers will arrange to get him and his family to Ibrox for a game, with the opportunity to meet some of the players and management staff.

There has been overwhelming support for Ryan from people throughout Clackmannanshire and further afield.

A Facebook page set up by his step-dad Richard Smith has attracted over 700 messages of support.

Richard said, "We've had an overwhelming response from the community.

"At every corner you turn there is somebody there thinking about him and wishing him well. Everybody has been shocked but pulled together and are hoping he'll recover."

He added, "When it happened it was unreal, like a dream. The doctors advised his mum Fiona that he didn't have a good chance and he might not last through the night but the surgeons have been amazed by his recovery."

Meanwhile, Lornshill Academy pupils have been making 'Get Well Soon' cards and acting headteacher Jackie Dunlop has passed on the best wishes of everyone at the school. Mrs Dunlop said, "It's wonderful that Ryan has begun to make a recovery. Everyone at Lornshill is extremely pleased to hear the news about how he is doing.

"All of us – pupils and staff – are united in sending him our strongest and kindest best wishes."

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This article appeared in Alloa & Hillfoots Advertiser 16 Feb 11

Have your say. Post a comment on this article.

• 

  AlloaYankee
  Unregistered User
  Feb 22, 15:09
  Report comment

  As a long time Celtic supporter I must say much respect to all at Rangers Football Club. Walter Smith has always been a gent.
  
  Recommend?   Yes 0     No 0

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